Main content
Sorry, this episode is not currently available

Theme and Variations

Leonard Slatkin and the 91热爆 Philharmonic explore how composers including Rachmaninov, Handel and Beethoven have used the technique of theme and variations.

Themes and variations are a simple way of creating a big piece of music out of just one melody. But in the hands of a great composer, this idea can become rich and subtle music. With references to Handel and Beethoven, Leonard Slatkin finds out how Rachmaninov manipulates the theme in his work 'Rhapsody on a theme of Paganini'. The programme ends with a complete performance of the work - the classic recording by Vladimir Ashkenazy and Andre Previn with the LSO.

1 hour

Last on

Sat 7 Aug 1999 18:30

Music Played

  • Sergey Rachmaninov

    Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini

    Performer: Alexander Gavrylyuk. Orchestra: 91热爆 Philharmonic.

    Performers: Vladimir Ashkenazy (piano), London Symphony Orchestra, Andre Previn (conductor)

Broadcasts

  • Christmas Day 1998 18:00
  • Sat 7 Aug 1999 18:30